USB 2.0 Interface
In order for the radar to be completely controlled from a computer, the individual modules require an interface between level-controlled inputs, analog control signals, and also for data transfer back to the computer. Analogous to a commercial or purely military radar, this interface should be standardized. For example, in the AN/FPS-117 this interface is called NTDS/RADAR INTERFACE CIRCUIT CARD ASSEMBLY.
In our self-built radar, we use a standardized USB 2.0 host controller. This controller also receives an additional serial EEProm and an additional SRAM. If these memories, which are optional to the processor internal memories, are not needed for a special application, then they are simply not populated on the respective board. Each board should therefore contain such a processor so that the used computer can communicate with this board via the USB interface. Software-wise this becomes difficult because the computer must also determine via this interface which board is connected to exactly this port. Unfortunately, the module names provided by the USB protocol are not so easily editable.
An own multilayer PCB design is no longer avoidable. At least the back wiring
is much easier.